Tanning FAQ's

Q1: Is indoor tanning the same as tanning outside in the sun?

A: When you tan at an indoor tanning facility, your skin produces a tan the same way it does when you lay out in the sun: through ultraviolet (UV) light. There is one important difference, though. When you are out in the sun, you cannot control the amount of UV light you are exposed to, because it is affected by changes in the atmosphere. Indoor tanning is one way to regulate the amount of UV light you are exposed to, because it is a controlled environment. You can gradually increase your exposure time to make sure you don't get a sunburn, which is harmful to the skin.

Q2: How long does it take to get a tan?

A: Usually, you will begin to notice results after a few tanning sessions, but it may take a few weeks of regular tanning (about 3 times a week) to get to the color you are looking for. You will notice a darker tan quicker when you tan in one of our upgrade beds.  Your tanning consultant can help you select the right tanning bed level for your skin type.

If you are developing a base tan before going on a trip to a tropical climate, you would want to start tanning at least 4-6 weeks before you go.  However, with our Level 5 Bronzing Beds, most people find that they get a great tan in only 4-6 sessions spread out over 10-12 days.

Q3: What should I wear?

A: It's totally up to you. (But long pants and sweaters aren't recommended for good results!) Some people choose to tan in their bathing suits or underwear, and others prefer a more "natural" approach. Since you are in a private room while tanning, you can wear whatever you like. The only thing required is that you do wear eye protection every time you tan, because your eyes are unable to protect themselves from UV light, even when they are closed, and the light can cause temporary and permanent damage to them. Many different eye protection options are available at all tanning facilities. If you are tanning a previously unexposed part of your body, be sure to cover it up for part of your tanning time, so it can catch up safely with the rest of your tan.

Q4: When shouldn't I tan?

A: It is not recommended to tan, either outdoors or indoors, if you are taking photosensitizing medication. If you aren't sure, ask your doctor, or ask a tanning consultant at your tanning facility to see a list of these medications, which can greatly increase the risk of overexposure. You should also avoid tanning if you are pregnant, due to the heat, unless your doctor approves it.

Q5: Why are lotions necessary?

A: Tanning without a lotion will deplete your skin of its much-needed moisture. Lotions can help stimulate the production of melanin so that your skin tans more quickly, gets darker and keeps its tan longer. Plus, our tanning lotions have moisturizers that keep your skin soft and healthy. Our premium lotions deliver vitamins, moisturizers, oils, and other ingredients to revitalize the skin and encourage melanin production, which gives you a tan appearance.

Q6: Why is moisturized skin important for a tan?

A: Healthy, moist skin will tan quicker, get darker and keep its tanned appearance longer because the melanin is produced rapidly and the skin also will not exfoliate as quickly when it is properly moisturized.

Q7: Which lotion is the right one for me?

A: We’ll help you determine your skin type and then recommend the best tanning products. With over 40 different formulas to choose from, there's a product and price level that's just right for you.

Q8: Are Lotions Worth The Money?

A: Tanning lotions are more than just a “nice to have” - they are a must. Here are 3 scientifically proven reasons for using tanning lotions.

1. You effectively lose 5 to 8 minutes of your indoor tanning time when you don't use tanning lotion.

2. Your tanning producing cells, melanocytes, are below the surface of your skin. These cells must be moisturized directly to produce the browning agent called melanin.

3. When you tan, your skin produces bacteria. This bacteria can produce white spots that do not tan and may cause an unpleasant odor. Scientifically-formulated tanning lotions reduce these bacteria by allowing the skin to tan evenly without odor or spotting.

Q9: If I shower directly after tanning will I "wash" away my tan?

A: Taking a shower after tanning will not wash your tan away. A natural tan takes 24-48 hours to develop. The tanning process occurs within the epidermis when melanocyte cells are stimulated by ultraviolet light that causes them to produce the pigment melanin. Melanin production results in the tanned appearance of the skin and is the skin's natural defense against the sun and over-exposure, i.e. sun-burning. Melanin travels to the surface, where it eventually flakes off. This process allows us to develop new skin every 4 to 8 weeks. Keeping your skin hydrated and exfoliated will help maintain a more radiant and healthy-looking tan.

However, many of the popular lotion products today include self-tanning bronzers. When using one of these lotions, it is generally a good idea to wait 4-6 hours before showering to allow the self-bronzers to be fully developed.

Q10: In order to get a suntan, do you have to burn first?

A: No! A sunburn does not fade into a tan. A sunburn indicates over exposure to UV-light and actually damages the skin, leaving it inflamed (as indicated by the skin's red coloring and sensitivity), dry, chapped and visibly unappealing. Always practice moderation when tanning and use the proper sunscreen protection when tanning outdoors and the proper exposure time that is recommended for your personal skin type when tanning indoors.

Q11: If I get really hot in a bed or booth, am I getting a better tan?

A: When you lay out in the sun to tan, you usually get really hot, so many times this is associated with getting tan. However, although the heat and the UV light both come from the sun, only the UV light affects tanning. This is why skiers can get sunburn in the middle of winter. If the sun is out, there is UV light reaching you, even when it's cold out. The same thing is true with tanning bulbs. If you get too hot while tanning, it could indicate that there isn't enough air conditioning at that facility, or the ventilation is poor. You should be comfortable while tanning. Since heat won't give you better results - why put up with it?

Q12: How old do I have to be to tan without my parent's consent?

A: Eighteen or older with an approved State ID or Driver's License. State law requires anyone under 18 must have a parent or legal guardian present with them to sign the Release before tanning the first time in our salon. After signing the Release, parents do not need to be present on subsequent visits. We will not accept notes from home, phone calls or parents of friends or other relatives to sign for them as we cannot verify their authenticity.

Q13: Do I have to wear eye protection?

A: Yes, laws in most states requires it because eyelids are not thick enough to protect your eyes from UV damage. Health Trends provides FDA-compliant, sanitized eyewear at no charge for each tanning customer. We also have eyewear for you to purchase if you would prefer to have your own pair.